Hearty Cabbage and Beef Soup 🍲🥬

This comforting and nutritious soup is perfect for chilly days or when you need a satisfying meal. Packed with tender beef, vibrant veggies, and warming spices, it's ideal for a family dinner or meal prep for the week. The layers of flavor make every bowl a delight, and it’s super easy to whip up!

Ingredients

For the soup

• 1 pound of ground beef (or lean beef chuck, diced)
• 1/2 head of green cabbage, chopped
• 2 medium carrots, sliced
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 3 cloves of garlic, minced
• 4 cups of beef broth
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (with juices)
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

For the garnish

• Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped (optional)
• Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Instructions

• In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sliced carrots, sautéing until the onion is translucent (about 5 minutes).

• Add the ground beef to the pot. Cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Drain excess grease if needed.

🍖 For a deeper flavor, consider browning the meat until it’s slightly caramelized before adding the veggies.

• Stir in the minced garlic, dried thyme, and smoked paprika, cooking for another minute until fragrant.

• Pour in the beef broth and canned diced tomatoes. Add the chopped cabbage and bay leaf. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

• Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 30 minutes, until the cabbage is tender and the flavors have melded.

🔄 Feel free to adjust the thickness of the soup by adding more broth or water if desired. For a heartier version, incorporate potatoes or beans!

Variations

• Spicy Kick: Add a tablespoon of chili powder or some diced jalapeños for a spicy twist! 🌶️
• Vegetarian: Replace ground beef with lentils or black beans, and use vegetable broth for a delicious plant-based option.
• Herbaceous Flavor: Toss in a handful of fresh herbs like basil or dill towards the end of cooking for a fresh pop of flavor.
• Slow Cooker Version: After browning the beef and sautéing the veggies, transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your hearty soup hot, garnished with fresh parsley or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. Pair with crusty bread or a simple green salad to create a full meal that warms both body and soul! 🥖🥗